Blues-Blackhawks, the perfect matchup for the NHL Winter Classic at Busch Stadium (AUDIO)

A heavy snow storm falls on Busch Stadium in St. Louis on March 24, 2013. UPI/Bill Greenblatt

Outdoor hockey is finally coming to St. Louis.

The NHL hosted a press event for the 2017 NHL Winter Classic on Tuesday at Busch Stadium. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman was joined by Blues Chairman Tom Stillman, Blues President & CEO Chris Zimmerman, Cardinals President Bill DeWitt III, St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay, St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger as well as Colton Parayko, and former players Bernie Federko and Bob Plager.

The 2017 NHL Winter Classic will be held Monday, Jan. 2 at noon.

An alumni game featuring Blues greats Bernie Federko, Al MacInnis and Chris Pronger will take place on December 31st vs a group of Blackhawks alumni.

“If we were the host the Winter Classic it would only make sense to play the Chicago Blackhawks,” Blues chairman Tom Stillman said. “When these teams meet it’s always an intense battle and we certainly saw that last spring. We would be thrilled to host the Winter Classic in any year, but it’s really special to host it in our 50th anniversary season. Thank you Blues fans. This would not be happening without your support over the years.”